This March, cinema-goers can expect a lineup of films that defy conventions, challenge expectations, and offer unique storytelling experiences. From a dystopian dark comedy by an acclaimed director to a psychosexual thriller set in rural France, the month promises to be anything but ordinary. Audiences will encounter stories that explore themes of class struggle, queer desire, parental fitness, supernatural horror, and even the mythical. These films are designed to provoke thought and leave viewers with lasting impressions.
In this segment, we delve into a film that reimagines the future through a blend of science fiction and dark comedy. Set against the backdrop of a world ravaged by environmental disasters, the narrative follows a man named Mickey who becomes part of an unsettling experiment. The story explores themes of exploitation and resilience, offering a fresh perspective on workers' rights in a bleak universe.
Bong Joon-ho, known for his four-time Academy Award-winning film "Parasite," returns with "Mickey 17." This sci-fi tale unfolds in a dystopian future where catastrophic weather has devastated Earth. Robert Pattinson stars as Mickey, an expendable employee who embarks on dangerous space missions, only to be cloned and reborn after each death. The film presents an absurdist journey through a grim universe, showcasing Bong's signature dark humor. Each resurrection via a massive 3D printer highlights the director's playful yet critical approach to storytelling. As Mickey repeatedly faces fatal conditions, the film challenges societal norms and questions the value of human life in a world driven by scientific experimentation.
This section focuses on a film that delves into complex relationships and desires within a quaint French village. The story centers around a returning baker whose interactions with the locals lead to unexpected complications. The film blends elements of psychological drama and social commentary, providing a nuanced exploration of queer desire and its consequences.
Alain Guiraudie's "Misericordia" is a sinister psychosexual comedy set in an autumnal French village. The protagonist, a down-on-his-luck baker, returns to his hometown for a funeral and soon begins to integrate into the community. However, his close connections with the locals stir up complicated emotions and potentially criminal situations. This film, like Guiraudie's previous works, delves deeply into themes of desire and the blurred lines between personal boundaries and societal norms. The narrative unfolds with a mix of tension and eroticism, challenging conventional narratives about love and belonging. Through its intricate plot and rich character development, "Misericordia" invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the impact of one's past on present actions.